LEXINGTON, Va. - VMI head basketball coach Dan Earl announced that point guard Rafael Jenkins has joined the 2018 recruiting class and will join the Keydet backcourt beginning with the 2018-19 season.

Jenkins, 6-0, 160, was a four-year letterman at United Faith Christian Academy in Charlotte, N.C. where he was selected first team All-State (NCISAA) and was named SPAA Conference Most Valuable Player. He averaged 13 points, 10 assists, and four steals per game for United Faith in 2017-18 and finished his high school playing career with 1102 points and over 500 career assists. Jenkins led his team to three consecutive conference crowns and his team was 36-1 when he started at point guard over that span.

“We are extremely excited to be adding Rafael to our program here at VMI," said Earl. "His combination of skill, intelligence and athleticism are an ideal match for our needs at the guard position. Rafael’s best attributes, however, are that he has great leadership qualities and he is a winner. He is also a young man that enjoys getting in the gym and wants to continue to improve. The Keydet faithful are going to enjoy watching his passion and intensity for the game.”

Jenkins also participated on the Puerto Rican National 17 and under and 19 and under squads.

Jenkins' father, James, played collegiately at The Citadel and professionally overseas in New Zealand and Chile.